Knowledge Marine Launches Smart Shipyard in Maharashtra
Knowledge Marine & Engineering Works Limited (KMEW) is making waves in the maritime industry with its latest strategic expansion. The company has secured 15 acres of prime waterfront land in Saphale, Palghar, Maharashtra, through its subsidiary, Knowledge Shipyard Private Limited. This acquisition not only marks KMEW’s entry into large-scale shipbuilding but also positions it to become a leader in sustainable vessel construction and repair.
Strategic Location and Natural Advantages
The newly acquired site is strategically located along the Vaitarna River, close to the upcoming Vadhvan Port. This location was selected for its natural marine features that enhance shipbuilding efficiency. The shipyard boasts approximately 188 meters of direct river frontage, providing essential waterfront access. Additionally, the site includes a natural slipway with a draft capability of around 6 meters at high tide, allowing for the movement of significant vessels.
Moreover, the facility benefits from robust multimodal connectivity to the Mumbai-Palghar industrial corridor, facilitating seamless logistics and transportation. KMEW’s choice of location underscores its commitment to leveraging natural advantages for high-efficiency operations in shipbuilding.
Developing a “Smart & Green” Shipyard Ecosystem
KMEW plans to transform the Palghar facility into a digitally enabled and environmentally responsible shipyard. The infrastructure will focus on several core areas, including integrated workshops designed for hull fabrication, mechanical, electrical, and piping works. These workshops will feature streamlined and automated workflows to enhance productivity.
Sustainability is a key priority for the new shipyard. The design incorporates advanced sewage treatment plants, structured waste management systems, and energy-optimized utilities, all aligned with global green manufacturing standards. The facility aims to provide full lifecycle support, managing everything from initial construction to long-term repair and maintenance, thereby creating a self-sustaining maritime hub.
Additionally, the project emphasizes a “people-centric” design to ensure operational excellence. Administrative offices and training centers will be fully digitally integrated, while on-site amenities will include accommodation and secure logistics systems to support a future-ready workforce.
KMEW’s expansion aligns with the Indian government’s initiatives to promote indigenous shipbuilding, including the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy and the Maritime India Vision 2030. By establishing this dedicated shipyard, KMEW is poised to meet the growing demand for technology-backed maritime solutions, marking a significant evolution from its previous focus on dredging and small-craft operations.
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Mr. Sujay Kewalramani, CEO of KMEW, emphasized the importance of this acquisition, stating, “This shipyard land is not merely an acquisition; it is the dawn of a new maritime chapter for KMEW Group.” He highlighted the phased expansion plan, which includes specialized workboats and tugs in the initial phase, followed by integrated repair facilities and floating dry docks, ultimately leading to large-scale vessel production.
KMEW’s new shipyard is set to play a crucial role in India’s maritime future, contributing to national self-reliance and global competitiveness while fostering innovation and sustainability in the shipbuilding sector.
